DMDK backs DMK front just before elections in Tamil Nadu

Chennai: Ending speculation, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) on Thursday joined Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led Secular Progressive Alliance in Tamil Nadu for the upcoming assembly elections. Other members of the alliance are Congress, CPI(M), CPI and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK).

DMDK general secretary Premalatha Vijayakanth, along with party leaders, met DMK chief and Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin in Chennai before formally announcing the alliance. "Our leader, the late scholar and president Kalaignar (Karunanidhi), holds unwavering love for our leader 'Captain' Vijayakanth," Stalin posted on X, adding: "I warmly welcome the capable general secretary, my beloved sister Premalatha Vijayakanth, who is now skillfully leading the movement. May your arrival - carrying the black and red flag - and this bond of goodwill continue to contribute to the progress and prosperity of Tamil Nadu."

DMDK's move is seen as a setback for NDA that was trying to woo the party back into its fold. A senior AIADMK leader said party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami had assured a Rajya Sabha seat to DMDK. Tamil Nadu BJP unit criticised the move as a "betrayal" of DMDK founder's legacy.


- With Agency Inputs